Olympus E-M10 III vs Panasonic Lumix LZ40: A Real-World Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts

Choosing the right camera can feel like navigating a forest - there’s just so much variety, and it’s not always clear which path leads to the perfect fit for your photography style. Today, I’m unpacking two distinctly different cameras: the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, a mirrorless Micro Four Thirds system camera aimed at entry-level enthusiasts, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40, a fixed-lens superzoom bridge camera designed for straightforward, zoom-happy shooters on a budget.

At first glance, they couldn’t be more different: the Olympus is aggressive about offering enthusiast-grade controls and lots of tech, while the Panasonic leans into plug-and-play convenience with a staggering zoom range. But both have their place, depending on what you want to shoot, how much control you want, and the kind of image quality you expect.

In this deep-dive comparison, I’ve drawn from hands-on tests, technical specs, and real-world shooting experiences to help you decide which might be your next camera investment.

First Impressions and Handling: Size, Feel, and Controls

Before diving under the hood, let’s examine how these cameras feel in hand - a surprisingly important factor that often gets overlooked.

Right off the bat, the Olympus E-M10 III impresses with its compact mirrorless design. It sports a classic SLR-style body with a firm grip and a traditional control layout. The build feels solid for its class (though no weather sealing here), and it strikes a nice balance of lightweight portability and purpose-built ergonomics.

The Panasonic LZ40 is a bridge-style camera, larger and noticeably bulkier, thanks largely to that massive 22-924mm (42x) fixed zoom lens bulging out front. It weighs a bit more too - 524g compared to Olympus’ 410g - and has a chunkier feel from the outset, especially front to back due to the lens extension and grip shape.

Handling-wise, the Olympus lets you dive deep with customizable buttons, exposure dials, and a tilting touchscreen, giving you plenty of tactile feedback and intuitive operation. The Panasonic, with its superzoom bridge body, feels more like a point-and-shoot on steroids: fewer manual controls, a fixed screen, and no electronic viewfinder, which might slow down shooting in bright daylight.

Checking the top views, Olympus sports a traditional shutter dial, exposure compensation wheel, and dedicated mode dial - all welcome for photographers who crave quick access to settings. The Panasonic’s top plate is more minimalist, with a mode dial but less tactile feedback for setting adjustments, making it easier for beginners but less flexible for intentional shooting workflows.

Summing up ergonomics: If you want full manual control and a camera that grows with your skills, the Olympus E-M10 III’s body design is way more satisfying. If convenience and a long zoom range matter more than handling finesse, the LZ40’s fixed lens and simpler controls are user-friendly but less engaging.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Now comes the heart of any camera debate: image quality. Sensor size, resolution, and image processing capabilities dictate how clean, detailed, and vibrant your photos will look.

The Olympus E-M10 III features a 16MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.4mm x 13mm, which is substantially larger than the Panasonic’s 1/2.3” CCD sensor at just 6.2mm by 4.5mm. This difference in sensor size - roughly eight times larger surface area for Olympus - translates into superior image quality across the board: better dynamic range, lower noise at high ISO, and richer color depth.

Olympus’ TruePic VIII processor further boosts detail preservation and noise reduction algorithms, delivering crisp, detailed images especially in good light. Its native ISO range starts at 200 and stretches to 25600, giving flexibility when shooting in low light.

In contrast, the Panasonic LZ40’s 20MP sensor packs those pixels into a tiny chip - which tends to create noisier images and less dynamic range. The CCD sensor, while historically good at colors, is now outclassed by CMOS tech in dynamic range and noise performance. Limited to a max native ISO of 1600 (boostable to 6400), image quality degrades swiftly in dim conditions.

Resolution-wise, while Panasonic claims 20MP and Olympus 16MP, effective resolution is more than just megapixels. Micro Four Thirds sensors maintain better detail thanks to larger photosites, better optics, and processing.

Real-world image quality takeaway: For sharpness, color fidelity, and overall image integrity - especially at ISO 800 and above - the Olympus consistently produces more professional-looking results. Panasonic’s best image quality is found at base ISO and well-lit scenarios, with softness creeping in when zoomed fully or pushing ISO.

Autofocus Systems and Performance

In my years of testing, autofocus can truly make or break your shooting experience - especially if you’re into fast action or unpredictable subjects.

The Olympus E-M10 III boasts a contrast detection-based AF system with 121 focus points and includes eye and face detection, which noticeably improves portrait sharpness and subject tracking in live view or video mode.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic LZ40 offers a simpler AF setup with only 9 focus points and contrast detection autofocus - no phase detection. It provides face detection as well, but suffers from slower and less precise focus hunting, especially when shooting telephoto at full zoom or in lower light.

For continuous autofocus and tracking, Olympus pulls ahead with its more aggressive autofocus algorithms and faster lens communication in the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem. The LZ40’s more modest AF struggles somewhat with moving subjects and requires more patience.

Practical note: If you regularly shoot portraits, wildlife, or sports, the Olympus AF system will feel significantly more capable and reliable. The Panasonic is more suited for static subjects or casual zoomed-in snapshots.

LCD Screens and Viewfinding

While image quality is king, how you frame and review your photos is a close second.

The E-M10 III offers a bright, high-resolution 3-inch touchscreen with 1,040k dots, tilting upward for high-angle shooting or downward for selfies (though it doesn’t have a dedicated selfie mode). The touchscreen interface is surprisingly responsive and helps in quick menu navigation or focusing.

The LZ40 features a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with only 460k dots resolution, which looks noticeably less sharp and can be challenging to view in bright daylight due to glare.

Crucially, Olympus includes an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a 2,360k-dot resolution and 100% frame coverage. This is an invaluable tool for composing images in bright environments, stabilizing your shooting through a viewfinder, and conserving battery.

The Panasonic lacks a viewfinder entirely, requiring you to rely solely on the rear LCD - less convenient outdoors or for precision framing.

Video Capabilities: Who Shoots Movies?

For photographers who like to dabble or specialize in video, Olympus steps up big.

The E-M10 III supports 4K UHD video recording at 30p with a bitrate of 102 Mbps, using a modern MOV/H.264 codec. Although it lacks microphone and headphone jacks (a missed opportunity for pros), it sports in-body 5-axis sensor stabilization which helps smooth handheld footage impressively.

In contrast, the Panasonic LZ40 is limited to 720p (HD) video at 30fps with Motion JPEG compression - outdated specs by today’s standards. It does include a microphone input, however, which the Olympus lacks.

In real-world shooting, Olympus’ 5-axis image stabilization combined with higher resolution video modes delivers more usable and professional results, while Panasonic feels more like a casual video camera for family moments rather than serious filmmaking.

Zoom and Lens Ecosystem

One huge selling point for the LZ40 is without question its massive 42x optical zoom - covering an equivalent of 22-924mm in 35mm terms. That’s an all-in-one zoom range capable of everything from sweeping landscapes to distant wildlife or sports from the sidelines.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 III doesn’t have a built-in lens, but thanks to the Micro Four Thirds mount, it enjoys access to over 100 native lenses - from compact primes to pro telephotos and macro lenses. This flexibility lets you tailor your shooting kit precisely, something no fixed lens camera can match.

The catch? Carrying lenses does add bulk and cost. But if versatility and optical quality count for you, Olympus’ system approach is an enormous advantage.

For macro photographers, Olympus offers dedicated macro lenses critical for sharp close-ups and precise focusing, whereas Panasonic’s closest focus of 1cm at the widest angle is a neat feature but rarely matches the sharpness and bokeh quality of a specialized macro lens.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life can be make-or-break in the field, and here the two cameras are near neck-and-neck.

The Olympus E-M10 III gets about 330 shots per charge (CIPA standard), which is decent for a mirrorless but you’ll want spare batteries for longer sessions. It uses the BLS-50 rechargeable lithium-ion pack.

The Panasonic LZ40 claims around 320 shots per charge, somewhat surprising considering its bridge camera complexity, but keep in mind the larger sensor and EVF drain Olympus’s battery faster.

Both cameras use a single SD card slot supporting SD/SDHC/SDXC formats, with Olympus supporting faster UHS-I/II speeds - this matters if shooting continuous bursts or 4K video.

Connectivity and Sharing

This is where I noticed a big difference. Olympus packs built-in Wi-Fi for quick image transfer to phones or remote camera control via an app. There’s no Bluetooth or NFC, but Wi-Fi is very handy for social media-savvy shooters.

Panasonic LZ40, unfortunately, offers no wireless connectivity, reflecting its older design and budget positioning. You’re stuck with USB transfer and SD card removal for image sharing.

Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s translate specs into practical lenses on photographic use cases.

Olympus E M10 MIII front Olympus E M10 MIII screen back Panasonic LZ40 front Panasonic LZ40 screen back

Portrait Photography

Olympus wins here thanks to its better face and eye autofocus detection, coupled with the ability to select fast-aperture prime lenses delivering creamy bokeh and smooth skin tones. The Panasonic’s fixed lens and smaller sensor struggle with shallow depth-of-field, yielding less separation between subject and background.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution count here. Olympus’s larger sensor captures wider tonal gradation and more detail from shadow through highlight. The Panasonic’s smaller sensor clips highlights earlier and lacks the depth for demanding scenes. Weather sealing is absent on both - a quibble for Olympus users chasing adventure, but be cautious.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Olympus’s fast continuous shooting (up to 8.6fps) and sophisticated AF tracking again beat Panasonic’s single fps burst and slower AF. Combined with pro telephoto M4/3 lenses, Olympus can capture decisive action shots, whereas Panasonic’s massive zoom is a starting point but hampered by sluggish operation.

Street Photography

Here, the smaller, lightweight Olympus with its discreet EVF and rapid AF shines. The Panasonic’s bulkier size and lack of a viewfinder make it less ideal for candid shooting.

Macro Photography

Olympus’s dedicated macro lenses and precise focus bracketing beat the Panasonic’s fixed lens “1cm” macro mode, which is limited in magnification and image quality.

Night and Astro Photography

Olympus’s sensor and image stabilization support higher ISO and longer exposures better, making it more capable for low light and nightscape shots. Panasonic’s CCD sensor and lower ISO ceiling mean more noise and lesser image detail.

Video

Olympus provides better resolution options and built-in stabilization for smoother video. Panasonic offers microphones input (surprisingly) but is otherwise limited by low resolution and dated codec.

Travel and Everyday Use

If travel weight and size are a priority, the Olympus mirrorless is smaller but requires lens bags and care. Panasonic is all-in-one but heavier and less versatile.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance & Durability

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, unlike some competitors in the same price range. Both hold up well under normal use, but Olympus’s metal alloy body feels more robust than Panasonic’s plastic-heavy build. For rough conditions, Olympus edges ahead, but neither is ruggedized.

Price-to-Performance: What Are You Really Paying For?

Retail pricing places the Olympus E-M10 III around $650 and the Panasonic LZ40 at roughly $220.

This wide price gap reflects the Olympus’s system camera advantages: interchangeable lenses, larger sensor, better image quality and controls. The Panasonic is a budget hobbyist’s dream: massive zoom and ease of use at a low cost but with technical compromises.

Comprehensive Scores at a Glance

To provide clear perspective, here’s a visual summary showing key performance parameters.

Olympus outperforms Panasonic in sensor quality, autofocus, video, and handling. Panasonic scores points with its zoom reach and simplicity.

And here’s a breakdown by photographic genre:

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

So, which camera should you choose? Let me break it down based on what matters most to you.

• Enthusiasts and Aspiring Professionals: The Olympus OM-D E-M10 III is your clear winner. With interchangeable lenses, advanced AF, a larger sensor, and generous video specs, it will grow with your skills and deliver superior image quality in portraits, landscapes, macro, and even some wildlife or sports work. Its compact and ergonomic design will make shooting more enjoyable.

• Budget-Conscious or Casual Shooters Who Prioritize Zoom: The Panasonic Lumix LZ40 makes sense if you want a one-camera solution with an enormous zoom range and don’t want to fuss with lenses or manual controls. It’s best for travel snapshots, casual wildlife observation, and general day-to-day photography where ultimate image quality is secondary.

• Video Hobbyists: Olympus is still the better choice, unless you specifically require a microphone input - but keep in mind that Olympus lacks headphone monitoring and manual audio controls.

• Street and Travel Photographers: Olympus’s EVF and portable design suit quick, discreet shooting. Panasonic’s fixed lens and bulk weigh it down.

My Testing Methodology and Confidence

I’ve spent weeks shooting side-by-side under controlled conditions and real environments - from outdoor landscapes and urban portraits to indoor low light and telephoto wildlife captures. Using standardized test charts, real subject tracking, RAW file evaluation, and post-processing consistency, the conclusions here reflect a blend of objective measurement and subjective field experience.

Dear fellow photographers: While the Panasonic LZ40’s zoom is tempting, if you value image quality, creative control, and a future-proof system, the Olympus E-M10 III clearly delivers more photography bang for your buck. It’s a camera that invites you to learn, experiment, and evolve.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you navigate your next camera purchase with confidence. Want to see the cameras in action? Stay tuned to my channel for live shooting videos and deep dives into lens options and accessories that pair well with the Olympus E-M10 III.

Happy shooting!

All data current as of announcement specs and hands-on testing through mid-2024.